Swiss Chard, Burpee's Fordhook Giant

Dark green, thick, tender leaves. Heavy yield even in hot weather.

This is the classic Burpee-bred chard, with dark green, thick, tender leaves and heavy yields even in hot weather. Easy to grow; eat it like spinach or beet greens. Pick from late spring till winter. 100 seeds sows 20' of row. Grows best in full sun, tolerates partial shade.

Growing Calendars are based on location and growing Zone.Enter your zip to see a calendar for your area:

How to Sow

Sow in average soil in spring as early as ground can be worked. Sow about 6" apart and cover with 1/2" of fine soil. Firm lightly and keep evenly moist. Seedlings emerge in 7-14 days.

How to Grow

Thin to stand about 12" apart when seedlings are 1-2" tall. Mulch plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Give chard plants 1" of water each week, especially in hot weather. If a flower stalk appears, remove it to prolong the harvest. Given good soil and adequate moisture, chard is rarely bothered by insects or diseases.

Harvesting

Begin harvesting leaves when they reach 5-6" or are large enough to use. Break off the outer leaves at their base, taking care not to damage inner leaves. Plants that are harvested regularly will continue to produce new growth from the center of the plant. Both the leaves and stalks are edible raw, steamed, and saut¿ed but avoid the lower 2-3 inches of the stalk as it may be fibrous and tough.